Raise your glass to these Oktoberfest happenings across Florida

It may not quite be sweater weather, but this fall Floridians will definitely be putting on their beer coats.

The state offers a variety of beer-oriented festivals now through November in the same style of the world renowned Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, happening this year from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4.

A trip across the Atlantic may not be in the books for some, but if you’ve got a spare weekend in the coming weeks you’ll be sure to find a festival where you can get your fill of beers and bratwurst.

For one of the most authentic German experiences, consider Fritz and Franz Bierhaus Oktoberfest in Coral Gables. While most stateside Oktoberfest festivals last three days tops, this one spans 11 full days.

“We’ve been doing it for 21 years now and every year it gets bigger and bigger… it’s just a really fun, exciting time for Coral Gables,” said James Neuweg, Fritz and Franz Bierhaus manager.

Neuweg said they try to make their Oktoberfest as authentic as possible, even flying in entertainment from Austria and Germany. The event is free and generally attracts about 10,000 visitors annually.

Oktoberfest happenings plus other festivals are spread from the Keys to the Panhandle throughout the month, so grab your stein and your lederhosen and check out what the state has to offer:

▪ Flora-Bama Oktoberfest: Oct. 3. All day and all night, with a cover for adults after 6 p.m. Taking place at the Flora-Bama, the Flora-Bama Yacht Club and the Flora-Bama Ole River Bar in Perdido Key. www.florabama.com/events/oktoberfest